VIDEO: One-eyed python finds a new home at uShaka
The young reptile currently measures just under one metre and staff expect him to reach adult size of around six metres in the next six to seven years.
DANGEROUS Creatures at uShaka Sea World is now a permanent home for Ivan the one-eyed reticulated python.
When uShaka Sea World staff heard that a python had been born with one eye and needed specialist care, they immediately offered their assistance, explained spokesperson, Ann Kunz.
“He has been in the rehabilitation centre for the past couple of months to ensure that despite his physical challenges, he is able to thrive. Thankfully his sense of smell is excellent, and he is able to feed and move around his exhibit perfectly. Reticulated pythons are virtually deaf and rely heavily on their sense of smell, touch, heat and vibrations to navigate their environment,” she said.
The young reptile currently measures just under one metre but Kunz said staff expect him to reach adult size of around six metres in the next six to seven years.
Durban North resident and senior herpetologist at Dangerous Creatures, Carl Schloms, explained that Ivan, who is around six months old, is a morph in the reptile world.
“In the reptile world, a morph snake means a genetic mutation has occurred that makes a snake look different than what is commonly expected and in Ivan’s case he is an albino lavender reticulated python. This species of snake grows to be the longest of any pythons and they have been recorded to be up to 10 metres long. We currently have a large reticulated python in our care that is six metres (just under 100 kilograms in weight),” Schloms explained.
“As with many other reptiles, looking after Ivan requires specialised husbandry we are thankfully able to provide. It has been a pleasure and a privilege caring for Ivan and we hope that you will look out for this strikingly beautiful snake on your next visit,” he added.
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